KPL
A transformative, youth-led digital campaign aimed at addressing the root causes of gender-based violence (GBV) was officially launched today in Vientiane Capital. Supported and funded by Plan International Laos, the initiative introduces an innovative Podcast Contest spotlighting the critical yet often overlooked connection between Child, Early, and Forced Marriage and Unions (CEFMU) and the heightened risk of violence faced by young women and girls.
The campaign kicks off with a two-day intensive workshop, equipping ten selected youth teams with advanced skills in digital storytelling, podcast production, and advocacy. Over the next three weeks, these young creators will develop compelling video podcasts that explore the multifaceted impacts of CEFMU and propose youth-driven solutions to prevent GBV. The completed podcasts will be widely promoted across digital platforms during the global 16 Days of Activism campaign from 25 November to 10 December.
Ms. Carol Mortensen, Country Director of Plan International Laos, underscored the campaign’s significance and urgency.
“The elimination of violence against all women and girls is a global imperative, and here in Laos, we are incredibly proud to stand alongside young people leading this fight,” Ms. Mortensen stated. “This campaign is not only about raising awareness—it’s about demanding sustainable change and ensuring every young woman and girl can live free from fear and abuse. Their voices are powerful and vital in driving progress toward gender equality.”
The initiative addresses the deep-seated vulnerability of child brides—a concern underscored by global research. Plan International’s State of the World's Girls 2025: ‘Let Me Be a Child, Not a Wife’ report highlights how the inherent power imbalance in child marriage frequently leads to domestic and sexual violence against young women.
“We often perceive child marriage as a separate issue, but in reality, CEFMU creates a direct and ongoing pathway to gender-based violence,” Ms. Mortensen explained. “By forcing girls into adult roles too soon, we expose them to higher risks of domestic abuse and early motherhood, while limiting their access to education and support systems. This podcast contest empowers youth to voice these truths, challenge entrenched norms, and advocate for stronger law enforcement across the country.”
A member of the Ling Ling Infinite team shared, “To end child marriage and gender-based violence, we need stronger law enforcement and equal access to quality education for every girl and boy.”
The campaign will culminate in a public awards ceremony on 4 November 2025 in Vientiane, celebrating the achievements of participating youth and amplifying the anti-violence message across social media platforms as the 16 Days of Activism campaign begins.
KPL
